This article is very disturbing to me. Are our teenagers graduating from High school or prison camp? I was considering moving back to Lamar county but then I read an article like this and realize how far out of touch our administration is with the students. The graduation ceremony is suppose to be for the students to enjoy, they are the ones who have earned it.I say the students should speak up for themselves, perhaps do not attend the ceremony;make your voice heard. Graduation is all about celebrating with your family and friends and taking pictures, if none of this is allowed why bother?

The attention will have to be on the stands, for sure.
I left the graduation of my first child deaf from the screaming of the people behind me.
I don't remember the graduation ceremony of my second child, I was seated facing into the searing sun and think I was delirious.
All kidding aside, congratulations to the Class of 2009.

I applaud the school administration for this. A graduation ceremony is not a sporting event; respect and decorum should be expected. Celebrating, taking pictures and congratulations should come after the ceremony. It would be nice if guests could go onto the field after the ceremony but I can understand the need to protect the new surface.

I do disagree with the parking and believe the closest parking should be reserved for guests.

Looks like a goverment school system at work. Let the students and their families enjoy the day. Remember that theses parents pay taxes that pay for the school system. I have been to 3 college ceremonies these year and at everyone, they wanted the family members, friends, and other guests to show emotion. Yes, i agree that this is not a sporting event, but it is a victory for most students in the world today that surrounds them. Who are they to control my emotions and most of all, who in the hades them them right to tell me what I shouold wear or not wear to this event. If i come in boots and overalls, you going to turn me away? Or, my #3 nascar hat, shorts,tank top, and flip flops?? Maybe I'll wear a confederate basball cap and an Obama t-shirt. What you going to do??
The principal of this school is an idiot...thats right!!!! You need to "show your class and not your a$$", oh by the way...thats a quote made to the football players before each game in the locker room from coach Bear Bryant!!! Get real principal, step up to the plate and do the right thing. Give the students their day. Remember it's not your day!! And to the BPD...use good judgement..Thats all...

There's a time and place for celebration. During the ceremony is not it. And, some people wonder why we have so many disciplinary problems in schools these days. I think that you have just answered that question. No, make that, I 'know' that you have just answered that question. It's because of these type of attitudes, that things are out of control. Kudos to the LC Administrators for stepping-up...

This comment (#5) should be deeply engraved into the Wall of Stupidity. All parents and children should be quite...quite what? Quite loud? Oh, you meant QUIET. Will the last person leaving this blessed event, please quietly turn off the lights? Now you all be sweet in Panama City. Remember that vow of silence.

Majority of the families that whoop it up for the grads know that this is it for them. The families that are reserved and clap( the proper manner)know that their child is furthering their education.So, let the ones whoop it up, cause the cant do that in their next venture...the welfair line!

Thank you #4. That is exactly my thoughts. I have a child in the 7th grade and he knows what is "appropriate" behaviour. Graduation is a one time event and the students should have some say in how it proceeds. "Diplomas can be picked up after the ceremony". This makes no sense, how hard is it to place the diploma in the case and hand it out with a handshake and a smile to each graduate.Have we missed something? Was there a huge issue at last years graduation? Did some one bring Kegs to the event? Did the students "moon" the crowd? Did some official get trampled by parents taking pictures?

So if cheering from the stands isn't tolerated, what exactly will happen? It looks like we'll have to borrow law enforcement from all the surrounding counties to prevent cheering from being tolerated. I'm imagining the police handcuffing you for yelling, "Good job, son!" ??

Maybe what is needed is an uptight people section for those who are traumatized by human expression of support and happiness that can be glassed in, or we should hand out earplugs and milk of magnesia to that section and leave everyone else to actually enjoy the event.

Let them enjoy the day, the moment....I think all in attendence needs to clpa, hollar, shout, etc. These students deserve it. They need to hear the appreciation for the years of getting educated. This is not a movie theater were you have to be quiet!!!!! To the ones that want to abide by the principal rules, screw you. i go to the games and don't say anything to you when you hollar in MY ear, or stand up and cheer for YOUR KID, or get ticked off when you spilled your drink in my lap or all over my back, stepped on my foot in YOUR efforts to get to your favorite seat. IF the fact that someone wants to show appreciation to thier child for graduation and you don't want to hear applause or shout outs.....then sat your A$$ at home. Nuff said

Yes, being respectful is one thing but mandating NORMAL behavior at a graduation is rather pathetic. Who gave anyone the right to try to make these rules and just who voted them into place? As a parent of 2 who will be graduating from LCCHS I feel that we should have had some say in this matter as well as the children who will be put through this militarian ceremony.

For all those that attend the ceremony, when the principal steps forward to speak, all those who oppose, BOO the principal for HIS RULE and not the voice of the parents, for his ignorance. I will be there in support for my nephew, and he will hear me from the stands, I will shout, take pictures, and let him now that we are there to support him. Plan to wear the most outrageous attire that I can find. I hope I pi$$ off alot of the goody, goody, people. I just may bring my boat air horn... Maybe everyone should bring thier's as well. I hope that the BPD will use good judgement because you will be in the spot light!!!!

It is more than likely a lost cause to post in this forum as human beings are going to act how they want despite any sort of request or guidelines. Perhaps though it is that blatant disregard for tradition, respect, and authority that seems to eat away at the very fiber of our 'civilization.'

Granted high school graduation is not quite as prestigious as a secondary or post-secondary display, it still deserves a certain amount of etiquette and restraint.

Every student deserves to have his name announced and heard by the entire audience without being overshadowed by some parent who claims "I knew you could do it, Junior." Again, it is high school. Was there a doubt that Junior would not make it? Likewise every student deserves to be treated equal on this day. If your student has 20 guests in attendance and another child has only 1, should that student with 1 attendee be shown any less respect because he couldn't round up his own cheering section?

I agree with the notion that this is a celebration. But there is a time and a place. Parents, please use this time to teach your student perhaps one last lesson on respect and etiquette and common decency. It is a graduation gift that even money can't buy.

The graduation ceremony is suppose to be for
our students to enjoy. There is a time and
place for celebrating and this is one of them,
and if it were one of my children graduating
you bet my voice would be heard. The disciplinary problems doesn't start in the
school's it start's from home. The government
and the school doesn't have the right to tell
people what they can and cannot wear but I do
think people should dress appropriate in the
best they have, because some people are less
fortunate than other's I just wonder how many
student's are graduating because the earned it
and how many are graduating that didn't?

this is suppose to be a celebration of what our children have accomplished over the last 12, years that they have all worked very hard for both our students as well as the school administration. it is understandable that it should be a respectable celebration. but i do not agree with several issues we are faced with this year. and this is all because of the NEW STADIUM as in the past years our seniors were allowed to have their parents on the field to watch the ceremony and take pictures and get there diplomas on the spot not after the ceremony! if this is going to cause all this frustration and mass confusion why not have it at our original field a lot of parents and students would see this as a celebration rather than an agonizing event! i really think this is so unfair to our seniors class of 2009! just 2 years ago my daughter graduated from lchs and it was a memorable event, and wasn't at all a riot as many are expecting this years graduation to be. maybe we shouldn't even use the new field for football or any other event for fear that new turf will be ruined! maybe we should build a bubble around it and just admire it from a distance that way nothing happens to our new stadium. it is very disappointing to think that money and greed will tarnish our senior class of 2009 graduation ceremony as well as our memories for years to come. what will the class of 2010 come to expect their graduation to be like a nightmare!!!

Ideally, parents and perhaps up to 2 guests would be seated behind the graduates on the field. I would like to think that the money spent on the FieldTurf would indicate that it is capable of handling an audience and some fold-up chairs.

I can understand the actual diplomas being administered after the ceremony as it is very easy for a student to misplace their certificate or get it rumpled up in the celebration, etc, and then the parent gets upset with the school for not handing it to them directly. I am sure the high school will have an orderly system to pass out the certificates after the ceremony.

I would hope, however, that the class of 2009 and their families would take this transition in stride and still make the best of the situation. We are all learning and are constantly learning and I doubt the ceremony will turn into a riot.

Local graduation ceremonies I have attended can be likened unto NASCAR races. A bunch of drunken, loud, obnoxious rednecks yelling for people that can't even hear them. This is what the kid is supposed to do...graduate. Act like you've been there even if you haven't.

You are down right ignorant. If we as parents, teachers, administrators, and good standing citizens of the community don't demand respect from our youth, then what will the future be like. It is because of people like you that our children act like fools in public places. Graduation is something to be proud and dressing the part is part of it. Sorry you take offense but it is time to grow up!

ideally one would like to think most families would have 2 parents and 2 guest but what if a family is larger than 4? This is not always the case i have a family of 5 is one of them suppose to sit in the stands alone while the rest sit with the graduate?? who will choose which family member that will be? and as far as the diplomas being administered after the ceremony well i would like to think that after 12 years of school our seniors might have learned not to misplace or rumple their certificate. it is a very important document after all they did go to school for 12 years to get it! how can it be an orderly system if there is not even ample parking to support the magnitude of parents having to drive to the high school to pick up the diplomas? what happened to our rights as citizens like freedom of speech? we cant even cheer for our seniors. how can we take this transition in stride when it is a last minute decision on the school administrations part to inform the public just 9 days before the ceremony? did u expect everyone to just conform to the rules and regulations that have been set by the school administrators with out any complaints or thoughts of their own?? i really hope that our senior class of 2009 will take a stand on this matter after all it is THEIR DAY and the only high school graduation they will have because it only happens once in a lifetime!

Im a 2009 LCHS graduate and Hope Scholar. I will be marching in the ceremony and I hope my family doesn't sit there quitely but hoots and hollars for my accomplishment. I deserve it and so do everyone else whose grautating.

Good! Need to show some class and just clap. I have witnessed several graduations at Lamar. Every year when certain kids come up, their supporters start whooping and hollering, jumping up and down, shouting unaudible noises and such...reminds me of some of the tribal crap on The National Geographic Channel, like when one of their own brings some good food into the starving village.

No, two parents and 2 guests are not always the case. Guests over that number can sit in the bleachers. Perhaps you think that isn't fair. Life isn't fair though. Your student could try to get a ticket for the field from someone not using theirs. That is how many college ceremonies handle such events.

The student and/or parents will choose who sits where. We all have decisions to make.

As for certificates, this is how the school has decided to do it. For once, just accept it and trust that the school is doing what they feel is best for all parties involved. Not everything has to be an issue or cause a disturbance.

And please do not saddle this conversation with a 'freedom of speech' suggestion. Freedom of speech has its limitations too. When freedom of speech conflicts with other values or rights (i.e. another student being recognized) than it is considered social disapprobation. You can still have freedom of speech while recognizing certain social and behavioral rules.

Cristina, I really do not think this is a matter of conformity. The school has set a system of rules to which there are consequences. They are under no law as to how long they have to advise students and parents of such rules. In fact, it was a courtesy that they did so 9 days in advance. One would think that such simple rules of conduct would go without saying.

What is next for such lack of self-discipline? Will folks start hooping and hollering at weddings? Will a funeral have an air horn? What about a beach ball at the next Sunday Mass? I know those are extreme examples but when will the cycle end with such blatant disregard as you are showing?

just who died and made u god? just because u are in support of lamar county administrators doesn't mean u are the only one that has an opinion and that it superceeds anyone elese's i think u are part of the administration and that is why u defend them in this matter. the ceremony is for the senior class of 2009 and we as parents should ask the seniors about their opinions on the matter.

So 'christopher' you think that because I support decency and etiquette in the matter of high school graduation that I carry around a demigod complex? You ask who died and made me god? No one. This is an open forum where supposedly all views are welcomed. Well, this is my view. I welcome everyone's opinion and am happy to let the chips fall where they may.

I am not part of the administration as I am sure you know despite your accusations.

Yes, the ceremony is for the senior class of 2009 and for the parents as well. But does that mean that all rules and responsibilities should be discarded so that you can yell for two seconds at your student?

no it simply means the seniors should have a say in their own graduation!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! we all want decency and etiquette in this matter but we do not have to go to the extremes that the administrators are demanding!!

Now I agree with you. It is all in how you say it and with what respect you are willing to offer. Ideally the administration would have met with the senior class sponsor (assuming they still have one of these each year), the PTO, and honor students perhaps, to decide on an acceptable code for graduation.

I would encourage you to write a letter to the editor that could be printed in response to this subject.

The school officials are merely trying to bring order to a ceremony that deserves respect. They always provide a time to cheer for the grads, but it is very rude for the parents or friends to cheer for each individual student as no one will be able to hear the name of the next deserving graduate. In reference to the comment above from the person who has recently attended several college graduations and stated that cheering was urged, I am glad that I graduated from a university with enough class, respect, and dignity to enforce the very same rules of behavior that our local school officials have instituted. It is a shame that grownups cannot control their own behavior. Enjoy the ceremony, watch every graduate walk across the stage, let each student’s name be heard, and when all the names have been called give a big holler for your graduate!

Well, if this is a major decision that you numb skulls cant conclude on, then just stay home! I mean you act like it's a decision to unplug someone off life support....Just draw straws or iny minee miney mo...geewhiz how many cry babies out there!

Here's to hoping that it doesn't rain at the 2009 ceremony.
Last year's ceremony was a huge washout and it I felt so bad for the graduates. Their graduation was ruined and there wasn't a good contigency plan in place.

Is this how our school system makes up for last years mess?? I was at the graduation last year and it was handled very poorly by the school officials but the kids made the best of it. If tax paying parents (that paid for that new field) want to sit on the field behind their child and cheer. The should be allowed to!!

Good Lord, how many times in one's lifetime does someone graduate? No show of celebration? I'm not advocating acting a fool, but why can't someone holler someone's name or something, are out school administrators and "professionals" so inept, that some minor disturbance and such will make them lose concentration, and forget what to do?

"Officers will be on hand to observe compliance"

We're in a police state, people, all the way down in little lamar county even. ...believe me now, or believe me later.

I'm a lifelong educator, and I can honestly say I don't have a problem with the cheering at graduation ceremonies. It's no big deal for the announcer to pause a few moments, then read the name of the next person when silence is restored.

I will say this, though: I have noticed that there tends to be an inverse relationship between the volume of shouts and hollers given a graduate and that student's GPA.

I understand about not yelling or clapping, what I don't understand is why they are expecting parents to dress in their Sunday attire(to quote the paper I received).I work on Sundays and my attire is a uniform. If I am dressed in blue jeans and a nice top are the going to turn me away?

I think "Sunday attire" is a generic reference to clothes suiting the event. Perhaps if you that isn't specified some folks would come with their trousers below their knees, their bust exploding from their neckline, etc. They just want the event to have some quality to it, I think.

Andrew, please get a life. Do you spend all day responding to the articles on Barnesville.com? Who ever employees Andrew, please FIRE him! He doesn't work!! He spends all day on the internet responding to the articles on Barnesville.com. GET A LIFE!!!!!

You sir, have defined this graduation exercise in its proper perspective, as far as respect and values are concerned... These people can gripe all that they want to about not being able to show restraint. If they want to whoop and holler, and discredit the quality of the event, then let-em' do it somewhere else. School officials don't you budge one inch on the policies that you have put in place to restore order and civility to the event. If those in planning on being in attendance don't like it, then they can choose not to attend at all... It's gonna be done the right way, and it's high time that the folks in charge stand up for what's right. It sure sounds like they are doing just that -- bringing respect and good human values back into the equation.

Andrew would it be correct to say i can wear my nice jeans and western shirt as long as i dont look like three day of hard riding when i get there. thanks for doing such a fine job there hope scoop keeps you there a while.

They want!! What gets me is they just put a freeze on the pay for most of the whole school system and now they want u to show up dressed to the nines! I would like to know if truby took this pay freeze as well.You want to talk about not fair lets talk about that!!

Actually if you are really concerned you would already know that Lamar is already behind. Check with the school in your current town and see how many students and parents get onto the field after graduation for pics. You can have a good time with family, friends and take all the pics that you want just not on the field. You may seriously want to consider staying where you are instead of moving back to B'ville.

You people want big change in this town, yet when someone comes along with a plan you immediately attack it. People are always saying how the schools here produce dumb and disrespectful graduates. People are always complaining that the schools are at fault for children turning out bad. The people here expect the schools to serve as parents for these children. Well guess what? You are getting what you wish. (and just like spoiled, rotten children you are pitching a fit about it!) I hate you backwoods, redneck, trailer trash....well, not really. All of this just makes me laugh actually! Personally, I think the graduates should ride on 4 wheelers to accept their diplomas. Caps and gowns should be camo of course.

Maybe if you choose to train yours right now before they get to graduation they want act like inmates and need to be treated as such. Be thankful that Lamar County is raising the bar for our children instead of letting them act like idiots and they go out in life continuing to act the same way. Thats why Lamar has the reputation that it currently has. Good job administration keep it up raise out standards instead of letting our children just settle for any old thing. You only get respect if you demand it. Thats the problem now when kids dont like the rules they run home to mommy for her to fix it because someone didnt do what her poor baby wanted them to do. Parents be leaders and examples instead on contributing the to problem and when they get out in life and dont get their way they will understand that it is not all about them and end up in jail. Some rules, I admit, are just plain stupid,just like some laws, but never the less we have to follow them. Its called life. Grow up parents so your children will grow up. If everyone dressed appropriately without their pants down to their knees,their tops too low, or shorts and skirts too short then there would be no need for administration to enforce these rules. Be thankful that adminstration sees more in out children and their future that some of these childrens own parents do.

This is to: This is Crazy.....You must be crazy!! Telling someone that all the do is read the paper on the internet all day is crazy when your butt is doing the same thing.....Boy, are we calling the kettle black here??

this is in response to all of the above; it should be expected from all concerned parties( i.e. students, parents, family members, etc.) that a degree of order, respect, and dress be imparted upon the ceremonies. All are adults and should act accordingly. I do believe, however, that restricting parents from seating closely enough to snap a few pictures a bit ridiculous. In addition, is this new field so fragile? How do they propose to play the rough-n-tumble game of football upon it, where kleat wearing athletes run back and forth across it tackling each other's 200+ pound bodies on top of it? While some degree of cheering should be accepted, parents should illustrate a degree of restraint suitable to the event. I agree that the administration has the right and responsibility to create rules regarding these type of events held on school property, but a rule is only a good one when it is enforceable. Shall the parents who holler a bit louder than others expect to be accosted by the local police? As for the graduating student body I should hope that the administrators have SOME confidence in their influence upon these deserving souls so as to assume they would carry themselves as dignified and professional as they cross the threshold of responsible adulthood. They did help to mold them into the people they've become and will become. I am proud to have my son graduate and walk with his classmates and I look forward to witnessing the event. I want very much to experience him tossing his cap high in the air and watching him jump for joy at this so very important an accomplishment. Afterward, let the celebration begin! Remember folks, it is for and about them, the end of one era in their lives and the beginning of another.Please forgive any errors i may have made in spelling or grammer, I DID'NT GRADUATE!

Their graduation was not ruined! My son was just as proud to graduate and glad to be out of school for a little while. He understood that their graduation was unique and relished the idea. Many of that particular class always marched to a different drummer and it was actually very appropriate for that group. Lighten Up!!

I bet the parents at St. George School in Milner do not have to be told how to act at graduation. What a joke! This sums it all up for me on why I do not send my children to LCCH. It is not the teachers, it is the element of parents one has to deal with. If I am ever asked again why I do not use the government schools here, I will whip out this article.

Surrounding counties have been doing this for years and most people have respected the rules. Most of the students agree with the rules that have been put in place. It's not fair for one students family to not even here their name called because the family of the student before them are acting a fool. People have been escorted out by the police for not following the rules.

When my father dresses up he wear nice Levi's, a pearl button rodeo shirt, and polished black boots. When outside he wears a hat and when indoors he just combs his hair a bit. This IS his Sunday best and I completely think this is what the administration is referring to; good, clean, tasteful, attire.

I will say that it doesn't look good for a company to have an employee(who generally stays neutral on situations and seems to moderate a good deal) passing judgement or deragatory remarks on the comments portion of the webpage. I think you do a good job, but have stepped out of line with this.

Perhaps you are right 'Trey'. Perhaps I have become more passionate about this subject than I have on others. I do not think I have been derogatory for the sake of it. I have been honest with my opinions.

I can understand your argument in most cases. It would be downright subordination almost if our company were not a media entity. But since we are in the business of not just reporting who, what, when, and where stories but also deliver commentary in the sense of Op-Ed and dialogue I feel I am warranted here.

On each post I clearly identify myself and would speak the same way if you and I were to meet on the street.

Thank you for your continued readership 'Trey' and for voicing your opinion. I do appreciate it.

I as a student of Lamar County HIgh School does not like this new "code of conduct". This issue has been discussed at school all day, and there was not one student who liked this idea. Graduation is the time to celebrate you or your child making it through school. This issue should of been discussed with the students first. I graduate in two years and my family will be there screaming there hearts out for me.Also i will be there next friday to cheer for my friends and no one will stop me so they can get ready !!
CLASS OF 2011!!!

This is so different from last year. The school system proved that they didn't give a damn about the graduates, guests or teachers present at the graduation. They didn't have a backup plan for bad weather, then sent the graduates out knowing that it was starting to sprinkle already, before postponing graduation temporarily while the graduates got soaked walking/running back to women's clubhouse. Parents and guests were soaked. Then the graduation proceeded, where parents on the field had to wade thru flooding conditions to get a view of their soaked child receiving their diploma. The graduates, for the most part, made the best of it. Now the school system wants to get all prissy about someone clapping for their child... give me a break. Most people don't usually clap/cheer for more than a few seconds. If the school system cared about a nice dignified proper ceremony, where the graduates were truly honored, last years humiliating and degrading ceremony wouldn't have happened. Sometimes its all about showing their authority.

Just be glad your child is getting a diploma and stop all this b!tching!! The parents on this site are acting like a bunch of kids. No wonder why the kids act like they do now a days. They are being raised by a bunch of kids. I feel for the country when these lazy kids grown up. I bet they don't even want to walk to get their diploma.

Just set up a bunch of computers and press send. Then they can accept the diploma over the net where they would rather be anyway.

You act like he makes the rules up over at the school system.....Get over it and go on with your life......let the kids graduate. And all they care about any way is the after parties. Not so dumb picture his mom wants to take.

Congrats to the Year 2009 graduates!!
Now Run from you Mothers and go to those Parties!! ( it will give them something to write about later and grap on ).

I suppose the passing out of the diplomas at the school AFTER the ceremony is to provide the OFFICIALS the opportunity to prosecute those seniors who act in any way defiant of the "Demand For Decorum" (and this would include the actions of their family and friends in attendance).
What a vote of confidence in our graduating class. The admins should b ashamed of themselves!

It is sad to always have to turn to the police, yet when the police are asked to do their jobs they get attacked by the same people who are attacking the school system on this blog. Back in the day you did not even see police at any school event, yet alone on school campus. It just shows we are now a product of our own wrong doings.....

Lets look at this... during a athletic event, the student plays hard and gives it his/her best. During classes they study and again he/she gives the course the best. Both the athletic event and school year have a start and finish time. Now..at the end of athletic event, the student is part of a team and the team wins. During the school year, the student is part of a class who does well and will graduate with his fellow students. Now at the end of the athletic event, the student, without delay celebrates the victory ans then receives the trophy. But....the student who does well for ninie months has to wait for his trophy, then celebrate. Now thats SAD...It now appears that at athletic events, the student athletics will have to refrain from celebration and until the goverment school official grants permission for celebration. These kids gave 9 months for 1 day and they and thier family should not be denied the momment!!!!!! I wonder what the backup plan is for this year??

It looks as if you get off on attacking a person’s worth and dignity. So what if someone misspells a word as if you never have. Your point of view will have more impact if you show a little more southern hospitality and Christian grace.

I think a degree of mutual respect and reverence is what is being asked for here. Unfortunately, this is something that usually can only be taught at home. To expect nothing but is not out of line here considering this event is a ceremony to finalize an academic achievement and not a pep rally.

I, too, would prefer to sit on the field and be close enough to take pictures of my daughter. But, just think if they did allow this and some out of the ordinary damage did occur to this new field. What type of mud would be slung at the school officials on this forum then? Plus, we'd have a brand new field that needed repairing before the first regular season game was played on it. Either way, folks hiding behind "anonymous" posting are going to post outrageous comments about the school officials. I have dealt with Dr. Truby and Mr. Austin on other occasions and believe if there wasn't a valid concern they would allow parents/families on the field.

As I understand, one of the grads father is a member of the Outlaws motorcycle club. I wonder how they will dress. I also hear that about 200 club members will be attending. This I gotta see. Run Derick Run..........

It's really common for graduates to receive their diplomas/degrees after a ceremony.

I graduated from LCCHS and I'm pretty sure that we had to pick up our diplomas after graduating. We received a ceremonial certificate and had to wait a few weeks to pick up our official diplomas.

When I graduated from college, my degree was mailed out weeks after graduating.

As for decorum being maintained at the graduation ceremony I'm a little ambivalent about that. It is after all being held on a football field. I've attended past graduations and I haven't been bothered by the cheering when the graduates names are called. High school graduations are a time of celebration.

People can be serious at college, technical school, and miliatry gradautations. Congratulations c/o 2009!!!

Attention, Enoch. I have made some of the biggest spelling blunders in the history of writing. Some embarrassing and some hilarious. I'll tell you about them at the Spelling Bee. The way quite was used for quiet, I found quite entertaining. Smile....be goofy....be happy....don't sweat the small stuff....Evidently life gave you lemons....go get some tequila and mix you up a toddy. I would come drink with you but...tequila makes my clothes fall off!

I'm am sorry but I feel the need to come to Andrew's defense. In the "real world", you are expected to act in a certain manner in certain situations. These kids have worked hard and they should be proud of themselves, as I am sure that you as their parents are.

But you need to set an example for your children. You are being asked as a whole to show some restraint. It isn't that big of a deal. Clapping is sufficient, you can hoot and holler as you so eloquently put it before or after graduation.

When they get in the real world they need to know that there are consequences to ones actions. These kids will get jobs and will be asked to do things they might not agree with. But unless they are the one signing the pay checks they need to do what is asked of them. If not they will be out of a job.

There are far worse things going on in this world to worry about than not being able to yell at your child.
When chances are they be able to hear what you are saying anyways. It isn't like you won't be able to see them graduate. You are just being asked to do so in a dignified manner. We are all entitle to our own opinions. This is mine....

Could someone please explain to me why we need three assistant principals at the highschool? When I was in school we had a principal and one assistant principal. If we had just one of each that would help a lot with the budget.

Hold on now Sheila... my daughter is one of those 2009 Graduates of LCCHS and let me just say that she has never in her 12 years of going to school been in any kind of trouble. and you can ask R.T. about that because she and my daughter are very close! Just had to get that in so you would not think that all the kids graduating are trouble makers!

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Shelia,
I have more a typing problem than a spelling problem, although, I’m thankful for spell check. I have all that life could ask for, good health, money, a nice home, a great job, kids that I can be proud of, but the best thing to ever happen to me is my wife. Gratitude is a wonderful thing to have because it keeps you grounded. Now, compassion for human kind and overlooking the ignorance of others comes from somewhere else and I know that you know where to look. And, it doesn’t come from a bottle of tequila, then again if it make your clothes fall off, I may be wrong.

Yeah, without commas, you could run right into an exclamation point! BAM! The comma will slow you down so that the Punctuation Police Radar cannot pick up your vibes. To be real safe, always put a row of commas at the end of your comments in case you see the Punctuation Police. Then you can just grab a comma and put it where it belongs. My husband always keeps a few in his pocket.
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Please, S.G....that is not what my comment means at all. I am trying to imply JUST THE OPPOSITE. Over-regulation is sad to me. There is a happy medium somewhere. To be calmly ecstatic. That how everyone should be. Congratulations to your daughter! I hope this clears it up for others. Thanks.....

I understand what you mean. I just dont want people thinking that all the kids graduating are bad kids because they aren't. I am not just saying that either.. to know my daughter is to love her and trust me, every person that knows her does love her. And by the way, I love to read your writing.

I still want to know if truby took a pay freeze or was it just the teachers and bus drivers. Until u people stick together toput a stop to this garbage, lamar county is going to keep running over yall like a freight train.

Yes he will take a cut. And it isn't a freeze except for classified personnel (secretaries, papaprofessionals, custodians, etc). Certified personnel, including teachers, principals and superintendents will all have $1000 of their local supplement taken away. The board of education also cut their salary in half.

Because kids are a lot more unruly, and undisciplined these days. You can go in some schools during class changes, and think that you are at the zoo. It's that bad, really. It takes additional staff to keep order, and in some cases to prevent chaos.

Is the 'tail wagging the dog'? That's what folks that are disagreeing with the school administration's putting of stricter policies and guidelines in place, in order to have some semblance of respect, dignity, & control are doing... Being the tail that's trying to wag the dog, i.e...

Don't back-down LC Administrators, because if you do, then you will lose all credibility. Don't budge one inch on these newly implemented policies on decorum, and behavior, at graduation. Set the tone, and don't even think about apologizing for it.

The class of 2009 is a pretty hard working class! I taught most of them and they know how to speak up if they are having an issue with the administration. I believe they have addressed the issue and were a part of the decisions. These are not "roll over and die" students. They know how to have a good time and be respectful at the same time. I believe they will do the right thing. Also, this group of parents are supportive and also are not afraid to let the administration know of their concerns. Give it up!!

As a graduate of the class of 2006, in regards to your statement I am highly offended, because their were no guests being disrespectful. Maybe showing emotion for their graduates which should be done.
Instead of everyone acting like its inappropriate to cheer for these outstanding students, you should be proud. The class sizes of graduates increase every year...why ruin this years ceremony, when tradition is to shout "Go 'Name'". My sister will be graduating and for my family who travels I'm sorry to say they may not keep their mouths zipped as everyone who agrees with the Administration anticipates.

Maybe the graduation exercise should be a two-part process. The ceremony itself, where each student is recognized as a graduate (less all of the cat-calling and hollering, which is a definite distraction to what is trying to be accomplished...) should be conducted with class, which would require some restraint by those in attendance.

Then, the second part of the process would be a reception, where the students and parents can release all of their spent-up emotions. they can take pictures, hug each other, cry, laugh, shout, and be merry. In otherwords, there's a time and place for both... One to be subdued, and the other to proclaim success by celebrating in a sensible fashion. 'Showing-Class' being the key characteristic...

All 120+ comments are showing. The numbers are a "threaded" count. So, my reply to your comment should show as 41.1, not 42. Click on "Linear" at the top of the comments to see them in chronological order instead of "Threaded" and you will see the count is 120+.

I doubt anybody would be bothered by a "Go Johnny" as long as everything is quiet before the next student's name is called. The issue is when the family of that next student can't hear their name called because the whooping, hollering and blowing of horns carries on too long.

From reading the full story in the online edition, I gather they are asking the audience to hold their emotions, clapping, hollering, whooping, etc. until all the names have been called and the class is presented as a whole. I don't think they are "demanding" that you not speak a word from the time you enter the stadium until you exit.

I as a senior of the Class 2009, am putting up this comment not to offend anyone but I will speak my mind. Please try to think of the seniors on their graduation day.

I have one question to ask, for 12 years, I have worked through sweat and tears for that one piece of paper and I ask you, who is this day for? The graduating seniors or the administration to flaunt the "authority" they feel they have?

I think it is way too much to ask the parents to come in a strict dress code. Last time I checked, this isn't a prison outing, this is a graduation. I do expect the parents to be respectful, however, I do not think it is up to the administration to decide what the dress attair is.

Furthermore, I do not think that it is too respectful that the people who have the so called "authority" to tell the parents that they cannot cheer for their children. I do believe that time is the greater issue because if we all hoop and holler that it will take several more unexpected hours than needed, however that shouldn't be the issue. The things that the administration should be thinking about is the students who only have one person coming to see them walk across the stage.

I ask one last thing, when was the Senior class of Lamar County Comprehensive High School of 2009 asked what they wanted at their graduation? You wonder why we rebel so fervently, may be you should think about why we never get the chance to voice our opinion.

Corey- God bless you. You put your name up and expressed your opinion. And you're graduating in a few days. I'm very proud of you.
This is one milestone in your life, which will have many milestones, God willing.
Adulthood is here. You will work a job with rules that choke at times, for a capricious boss who will send you home anxious and frustrated.
You will buy a home and go through hoops to complete the mortgage process, and at times during the process you will wonder if you really want to jump through those stupid hoops.
You will marry and have children and that will be the hardest thing you do and it will be the best thing you do.
Corey, pick and choose your battles. Life is full of rules, choices, tribulations and joys.
This ceremony is huge for you, and yet it's not something to expend your energy on.
Attend your ceremony- you've earned the right to make that walk- and find the joy in the day, whatever rules you may be forced to follow.
Again, congratulations to you and to your fellow graduates.

Well said #42, I have a child graduating this year,and I be DA... if I am going to sit there, and not say anything when they call her name, she have been in school 12 years, and she deserve to have her family,yelling her name.I guess Maggie, and the crew will be escorting my whole family out the stands. Mr. Austin, know when his big heads boys graduate he will be yelling too.

I think that it was a mistake for the school administration to release such a statement anyway. Someone should have had the foresight to see that this would spark many negative reactions. I have a child graduating from a different school system this year. Will I jump up, hoop and holler when his name is called? I don’t know. I don’t believe that I will make a spectacle out of myself though. If other parents do…good for them. I don’t believe this is a “time” issue. It’s the school flexing its muscles for one last hooray against LCCHS 2009.

No offense was inteded, so I'm sorry you are so easily offended by a true statement. My daughter graduated in 2006 and because of all the inappropriate hollering and dancing by some other graduate's family members on the field we were not able to hear her name called and were barely able to see over all the foolish dancing as she received her diploma. So, please do not tell me that no inappropriate behavior took place during the 2006 commencement exercise. Fortunately for our daughter, high school was just a stepping stone to a much brighter future and she is on target to graduate college next May. I anticipate her college graduation to be a much more dignified ceremony.

I agree. It seems like anyone in any kind of power is trying to turn people into the communist social dead. Long ago the King of England tried to put a halter on freedoms and found a revolution. People with good intentions attempting to throw their weight around usually find some type of opposition. Threats almost always invite the opposite reaction.

I don't see what the big deal is. I have been a part of 4 graduations (one from high school and three from college) and in every ceremony etiqute was expected. If you read the programs given out at the door, there was a list of what was expected. Shouting ruined two of those ceremonies for my parents and family because they were not able to hear my name called as I recieved an EMPTY folder. Diplomas are always given out after the ceremony. Lamar County is only letting you know what to expect ahead of time. Nothing is new! I applaud Lamar County Comprehensive High School and congratulate the graduates. I just hope your families are able to hear your name be called as you walk accross the stage.

I just graudated from Gordon College and they also asked graduates to ask their families from applauding, screaming and hollering, but to no avail it did not happen. To yell someones name is one thing because I know that you are proud of your child or in this ceremony maybe your mama, grandmother, spouse, but some of the people were just ridiculous and obnoxious, they acted as if they were cheering for someone that had just played an enorous game or something. It was guiet annoying to me and I'm sure to many others.

Very well said Steve, this shouldn't have to be said people should know how to conduct themselves. What is wrong with one big celebration once everyone has had their chance to walk instead of screaming and making fools of yourselves all throughout the ceremony, and the crowd gets to hear everyones name called. Don't you think all the kids deserve that their name be heard? After all it is for them right!

This is just another ignorant thing the school system is trying to enforce. I graduated in 2001 and things were going down hill then. I can see the admint asking for everyone to hold their applauds until the end. Fine. If ppl choose to act different, fine. They should request it but to take action if someone does it is rediculous. I say that all 10k ppl in attendance needs to holler and act a fool just because the admin wants to try and strong arm everyone. Are they gonna cancel the whole thing and kick everyone out. My children may go to elementary school here but no way in crap they will be going to the high school. Crap on LC high school. We do have some good teachers in the lower levels but the rest sucks for the most part. Always has and always will.

Did you wear shorts, flip-flops, & a tank top to your last job interview? What about your hat... was it turned backwards? And those shorts... were they hangin' off of your butt, too? Surely you flashed all of those tatoos that you have on your arms, legs, & neck to impress the person interviewing you. I can see you now. You're one cool dude...

Another solution to the problem. If folks can't act civil, show class, & be somewhat dignified at an event that is meant to recognize the graduates for their success, then dispense of the graduation ceremony altogether. Just mail the diplomas out, and wish them good luck in their future endeavors.

If folks want to demean the graduation exercise, then take away the opportunity to do so... Those that yell, cat-call, and just generally act like low class citizens, usually are the ones that have low achievement success ratios on their resumes', anyway. The conduct parallels the intelligent quotient in most cases.

In response to all of the post comments to my last, I say this. Etiquette is expected, yes, however clapping is not that big of a deal. I will say this again, is this day for the seniors or for the administrators?

Furthermore, I am sure that everyone is well aware that this is a formal occasion and will not show up in a mini skirt and flip flops, nor look like they just got off a hard day's work at the coal mines. However, I do not believe and it is a very strong belief that the administration has the right to tell my parents, or any of the parents/guests for that matter, what they can and cannot wear.

I will say this, if I look up in the stands and I see the so called police force of Lamar County escorting out parents who could not contain their so called "acting out" will ruin my graduation. I think I speak for the whole class of 2009 when I say that, clapping and cheering is what we should be able to do but playing around and just being noisy to be noisy isn't.

Lamar County High School Administration may have had the best intentions in mind but they sure didn't handle it the best way they could.

As for Mr. Austin, just because he is the new principal doesn't mean he is the greatest. I applaud the work he has done for this school, however, he tries to exert too much power, most of which he doesn't have. I may be in High School, but I am not dumb nor blind, nor are any of the graduating Seniors. May be, next year, you could try to handle this issue another way. It may lower the oppositions on your end.

Corey, I completely agree with you on all of that. I mean, graduation day is supposed to be OURS! Now, I understand that some order is expected, but bringing in police just to make sure the crowd behaves is one thing I am not looking forward to seeing. Way to speak for yourself!

I am a graduating senior as well. To all of those who think shouting ridiculous things is appropriate and only showing appreciation for your own student, please think about what you are saying. If your own child's name was covered by the roars of another child's family, I'm sure you would be angry. Proposing that it is acceptable to do the same for YOUR child is hypocritical. You want the best for your child just as others want the best for theirs. I think that Mr. Austin is exactly what our school needed. He is enforcing strict policies at what should be a semi-formal event. Conservative clapping and whistles and such are appropriate; however, carrying on too long or, as the Spaulding High Grad stated above, foolish dancing or other loud and obnoxious behavior is a bit much. I know my graduation day would be ruined if I couldn't hear my own name or if I looked up and saw my own family acting like crazed, drunken fools.

These policies - requests, really - are set in place for a reason: respect and consideration for ALL. To you, your child means the world, but what about others' children? Show them the respect you would like. Stop making this ceremony into some clown circus and show some class PLEASE. This is a big day for us, so please don't ruin it by trying to do something that has already been condemned like some childish three year old.

I'm sure I'll face a handful (or more) of "You're-stupid-you-prick" replies, but this is my opinion and I think its steering Lamar County in the right direction for a change. I know this year has seen much improvement because of the new administration and I am thankful for that. I'm glad LC is stepping up its game.

No dog in this fight... But, if folks would refrain from all of the antics that are a distraction to the ceremony, then bringing the police in would not be necessary. You would have to be extremely naive' to think that the school administration is implementing these policies just to show their authority. That's just flat out preposterous...

These 'concerns' only apply to those that are being inconsiderate of others. Parents, friends, & guests want to hear the names called-out of each student that is graduating... Really, do you not think that all of the shouting and yelling doesn't become a distraction... It gets worse every year -- not only at LCCHS, but in many schools throughout the state.

If this situation is not brought under control, then you could have the privilege of the graduation exercise taken away from you. Show some respect, and you will get some respect. Otherwise, lose the privilege... It's about high time that the tail quits wagging the dog. Kudos, Mr. Austin for standing up for what's right... Never apologize for keeping the standards of conduct at a high level.

This has been a very interesting subject. But,I must say, who ever is in attendance is going to do what they want to. I don't believe that the ceremony will get out of hand, but the presentation of guidelines with police interaction was the most negative way to present. This graduation is for the students. They are the one graduating. No one else attending.. the parents, teachers, friends, police, media, etc..The graduating class. Give them thier day. I've been to a couple of college ceremonies and applause, shout outs, whistles, etc were given out with out any problems. Even the college president stated to those in attendance that this thier day, the graduatiing class, so let yuor child, your friend, ect know that you are here. Get a grip and let the kids have their day and enjoy it. Oh and I must add that the dress code for the college was wear what you want. I saw shorts, flip flops, hats, t-shirts, etc..and no one was turned away or harrassed by law enforcement. I guess some of you want the name of the colleges?? One was Auburn and the other Alabama. Both top rated SEC schools like Georgia

Maybe somebody will photo your antics with their cellphone, and put it on You Tube for the rest of the world to see... I can't wait to see you being dragged out of the building by the police, screaming and hollering all the way... You should really be good at it with all of the practice that you will have... And, that my friend should be a real 'HOOT'!!!

The real issue is that people yell for the graduate and continue yelling and the next name can not be heard. It is all about respect. I agree with the person that suggested a ceremony and a reception after the graduation. Parents and students should be able to show emotion and excitement. It is difficult to manage that when you have brothers,sisters,cousins etc in the stand acting up and giving no respect to other graduates. There absolutely should be a dress code. Look at the way half the people in this world dress. Hoochy mama's and pants hanging off boys butts. Where is the class in that? We in Lamar County will continue to be world class and continue to do so by having "class".

Maybe you should check into your facts a little more. No all employees pay are going to be frozen. Would you rather have furlow days and have more of your paycheck gone? Let's weigh out the two and see what will benefit you more. I think the superintendant is very smart in what he has implemented. Also, before you start getting all hot and heavy about Dr. Truby's intentions, let it be know he is taking a bigger cut in pay than everyone else. That is also by his choice not a demand from higher up. So maybe instead of worrying so much about your pay cut, you should have just put the best clothes you own on and left it at that. If that doesn't suit you maybe you could some how in this economy find another job that will pay you enough to buy you ONE nice outfit.

With it over, I thought the "decorum" was pretty decent. Folks had some emotional releases between names but most were quiet before next name was called. It did seem like person calling names had to pause a little longer on a few. Everyone seems to have a different opinion of "Sunday Best" but I didn't notice any glaring outfits that looked out of place.

I attended another, much bigger, graduation at another High School today and it was much worse than Lamar County. The principle actually gave a short 3 minute or so instructional speech before they started giving out diplomas and folks in the audience laughed aloud...that isn't overdoing emotions, that's down-right disrespect! This wasn't a "Please hold applause until all names are called." This was a lengthy speed! They had air horns, cow bells and whistles. Very annoying!!!

My brother graduated from Spalding High yesterday and I was socked. Lots of ppl was yelling and blowing horns and not a soul cared!! Even I stood up to yell for my brother with the tears streaming from my eyes!! What a wonderful few seconds that was frozen in time in my memory!!

Point I am getting at here. Not even the administrators seemed to mind. They just stopped speaking till the crowed died down. Then off to the next joyous memory in the moment.

There is 16 yrs between my brother and I and I wanted to show him the love and respect that he has given me as a brother and as a Uncle to my kids. I couldn't ask for a better brother in the world!! Age is not a factor here ppl. It is how you are brought up and what morals you are taught. So, what if some ppl are yelling in the stands. It's a proud moment for most. Most ppl don't get the chance to see there son, daughter, brother, sister, nephews, nieces, granddaughter, grandson, and so on....To graduate. Not all make it the whole 12 yrs.

I wait some time before I responded to this blog for I was unsure of how I felt on the subject. I waited till I could experience the subject in matter. I am so glad that I waited. Until some of you see a loved one graduate you will not understand how proud you are, how excited you feel, and for that loved one to hear their loved ones in the stands yelling for them.......It's only a boost to their ego that they can make it to the end of any long journey, no matter how hard it may seem to be to get to the end. There is always bumps in the road, some are just bigger then others but it's those that stand behind you and help push you over.

Congrats to my brother Casey and all of class of 2009. You all have many paths ahead of you all. Take the one least driven on.

Ashley,
I don't think anyone who has posted here has said families/friends shouldn't show emotions, excitement and happiness for the student graduating. Most, myself included, just would like to see enough respect to not carry the "emotional outburst" so long that the family/friends of next student can't hear his/her name called. To keep the program flowing the person reading the names can't pause too terrible long. I think 99%+ of those in attendance Fri night did just that. It did seem the crowd didn't settle down very good as the 11th grade person came to podium which was right after the "presentation" of the whole class.

I'm glad you are proud of your brother and enjoyed his graduation. I had not been to a HS graduation in a few years (an out of town relative) and that crowd's behavior left A LOT to be desired.

I do not know what graduation you went to but my brothers school did some yelling and horn blowing but was all done by the time the next person was called. I thought this whole blog was just blown way out of portion. In the beginning in my opinion.

Maybe the graduation you attended acted that way. I do not know. I just know that Spalding High did a very tasteful job in my opinion. Oh and they do not give the real diploma out until the end. That way there are no pranks to be pulled b/c they will not receive their diploma if it is. ( which I thought was a very good idea ).

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